Pages

9.05.2008

Crochet basket or bowl tutorial

If you know me you may recall the all encompassing "ditty bag" marathon, that

took me by storm.

Now, in turn I am becoming obsessed with crochet bowls or baskets.

This one is about the size of a CD, and fits in my hand.

These are easy to make and fun to fill.

All you need is:

A small amount of yarn (depending on the size of the bowl you want to make)

Able to crochet, only single crochet, chain, and reverse single crochet is needed.

Crochet hook, I like to use about a size I or J for worsted wt yarn, use smaller if you wish your bowl to be more firm. Any size yarn can be used, read the label and it will give a suggestion as to the size of hook you need.

If you want to make your bowl super strong, some white glue, (like elmers) and water. Or firm but not super stiff, spray starch, These previous two will wash out if you don't like them. For a permanent result use commercial fabric stiffener, found in most fabric stores.

Rnd 2: Chain 7 sc in the 2nd chain from the hook, no need to join, it is easier to keep going in a circle, but you may want to put a safety pin here to mark the beginning of your round.

Rnd 3: (*Sc, 2 Sc in same stitch*), repeat this until you get to your safety pin.

Rnd 4: Same as Rnd 3

Rnd 5: (*Sc, sc, 2 sc in same stitich*), repeat this until you get to your safety pin.

Following Rnds: Continue Rnd 5 (you should be making a flat round) until it is about 1/2 inch less that the size you would like your bowl to be.

Sides:

Rnd 1 and all following sc in each sc, (it will take a couple of rows until your bowl starts to form upwards)

Continue until your bowl is tall enough.

The last row I finish off with several slip stitches, then...

To make the lip use the Crab Stitch (or reverse single crochet) see here, for example. Or if you are a visual learner, try searching You Tube.

If you wish your bowl to be stiff or firm, you can set it on newspaper and spray the heck out of it with spray starch, it dries nicely if you are able to sit it in the sun.

If you want your bowl to be super stiff or firm: White glue and water. Just mix the glue with equal parts water and apply it. For a more pliable finish, you may want to add a little more water. Let dry thoroughly, if your bowl cannot stay like you want it, lay it over a bowl, cup or something similar in size.

Of all the stiffening methods, commercial fabric stiffener provides the most durable finish for your projects. Keep in mind, though, that it is permanent. You should be able to find this product at your local craft store and follow the package directions for mixing.

Have fun!

Don't forget you can make these into nesting bowls, organizational bowls, or let your imagination take over.